If you're currently receiving rental assistance through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, a change in income can significantly affect your benefits. Whether you’re picking up extra hours at work, switching jobs, or facing a layoff, it's important to understand how these changes impact your eligibility and your portion of the rent. Here's what you need to know about income changes while living in Section 8 apartments.
Understanding Section 8 Rental Assistance
Section 8 is a federally funded program that helps low-income individuals and families afford safe and decent apartments. The program pays a portion of your rent directly to the landlord, while you pay the remaining amount based on your income—typically around 30% of your adjusted monthly income.
This means that your income plays a major role in determining how much rental assistance you receive.
What Happens When Your Income Increases?
If you start earning more money, your share of the rent will likely go up. Here’s how it usually works:
What Happens When Your Income Decreases?
If your income goes down—due to job loss, reduced hours, or other financial hardships—your rent may be lowered as well.
Annual and Interim Recertifications
Even if your income doesn’t change, you’ll go through an annual recertification where your income and household details are reviewed. However, significant changes—like a new job, job loss, or changes in family size—trigger an interim recertification, which updates your information immediately.
Why It’s Important to Stay in Communication with Your PHA
Failing to report income changes can lead to serious consequences, including:
Your PHA is there to help, not punish. Keeping the lines of communication open ensures your rental assistance matches your actual needs.
Income changes—whether up or down—can directly impact your Section 8 rental assistance. The key is to report any changes promptly and provide accurate documentation. Doing so helps you avoid penalties and ensures you continue to receive the support you need to afford stable housing.
If you’re searching for Section 8-approved apartments or need help navigating changes to your housing benefits, reach out to your local housing authority or search for local resources online.